Glossy Ibis Artwork Appraisal

Glossy Ibis Lithograph after John James Audubon

This item is a decorative framed print of the 'Glossy Ibis' (Adult Male), originally drawn from nature by the renowned ornithologist John James Audubon. The artwork is presented on a rectangular piece of heavy, textured paper with distinctive deckled edges, giving it a rustic, handcrafted appearance. The central image depicts the ibis in a marshy habitat, rendered in rich earth tones of deep brown, olive green, and ochre. The print is housed in a contemporary double-glass 'floating' frame, which allows the wall behind it to be visible. The wooden frame features a heavily distressed white or light-tan finish, intentionally chipped to reveal dark wood underneath, reflecting a shabby-chic or farmhouse aesthetic. Legible text at the bottom identifies the artist as 'J.J. Audubon FRSFLS' and credits the lithography to 'J.T. Bowen.' While the style mimics a 19th-century octavo edition plate, the deckled edge treatment and modern floating frame suggest this is a high-quality contemporary reproduction rather than an original 1840s lithograph. The condition appears fair to good; while the paper shows intentional 'antiquing' and discoloration to simulate age, there are no obvious tears or water damage visible. The glare on the glass indicates a standard reflective surface rather than museum-grade UV protection.